Bucs Will The Need Offense
(September 6, 2006)

With names like Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber, Simeon Rice, Shelton Quarles, Brian Kelly and Anthony McFarland, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense is solid. Some might suggest they are getting old, but the same group lead the National Football League's number one defense last season. Josh Bidwell and Matt Bryant should bring consistency to the kicking game. If the Bucs are going to successfully defend the NFC South Division title, it will be up to the offense.

When you look at the Bucs offense, you would think it would be solid group. Not many teams can match a trio of running backs like Cadillac Williams, Michael Pittman and Mike Alstott. Joey Galloway and Michael Clayton are an excellent compliment at wide receiver. Ike Hillard and newcomer David Boston can also catch the ball. A predominantly young offensive line was strengthened by adding first and second round draft picks in Oklahoma guard David Joseph and Boston College tackle Jeremy Trueblood. Since we are talking about the Bucs, were the o-line is a historical concern, that group will have to prove itself.

There has been a lot of talk about the quarterback position this preseason. Chris Simms has made a dozen starts over four seasons and this is his chance to elevate his game to the next level. An injury to Simms, or poor performance, could sent the Bucs on a downward spiral. The team brought in Jay Fielder, then released him due to his slow recovery from injury. Luke McCown has been placed on the physically unable to perform list. Tim Rattay has not shown much this preseason and has not been a factor since coming to Tampa Bay. The darling of this preseason has been Bruce Gradkowski, a sixth round draft pick from Toledo, but he is probably not ready to take the helm. Simms has not played much in the exhibition games, but the team is confident in his abilities. He will be needed.

Other than losing Brian Griese and Dexter Jackson to free agency, this is pretty much the same team as last year. Carolina added Keyshawn Johnson, New Orleans signed Reggie Bush and Drew Brees, and Atlanta added Lawyer Milloy. The NFC South is the strongest division in the NFL and Carolina is almost an unanimous Super Bowl selection. Then again, few picked the Bucs to win the division last year.

The Buccaneers should have one of the top defenses again this year. The kicking game and special teams look good. To contend in a tough division, the Bucs will need the offense.